Spring in the Netherlands: Tulips, Festivals, and the Best Things to Do
Spring is one of the most magical times to visit the Netherlands. As the gray winter fades away, the country bursts into color with blooming tulip fields, lively festivals, and longer, sunnier days perfect for exploring. Whether you’re here for the iconic flowers, charming small towns, or some of the best springtime celebrations in Europe, the Netherlands has something for everyone.
In this post, we’re diving into the best things to do in the Netherlands in spring, including must-see events, hidden gems, and the top experiences to make the most of this beautiful season.
Must-See Spring Events in the Netherlands
Keukenhof Gardens (March 20 – May 11, 2025)
If you’ve ever seen those iconic tulip photos from the Netherlands, chances are they were taken at Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse. With over 7 million tulips in bloom, this is the ultimate flower lover’s paradise.
💡 Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance and arrive early to beat the crowds. For an even better experience, rent a bike and explore the flower fields around Keukenhof!
Flower Parade (April 12, 2025)
One of the most spectacular events of spring, the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (Flower Parade) takes place every April. Expect massive floats completely covered in fresh flowers, traveling from Noordwijk to Haarlem in a colorful parade.
Tulip Festival Amsterdam (April 2025)
Want to see tulips without leaving the city? The Tulip Festival brings tulip displays to parks, streets, and public spaces all over Amsterdam. Just take a stroll through the city and enjoy the vibrant floral decorations.
King’s Day (April 27, 2025)
King’s Day is the Netherlands’ biggest party, celebrating King Willem-Alexander’s birthday with street markets, live music, and boat parties across the country.
📍 Best places to celebrate: Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam.
Must-Visit Places & Hidden Gems
Tulip Fields Beyond Keukenhof
Keukenhof is amazing, but the real magic happens in the surrounding countryside. The Bollenstreek region (Lisse, Noordwijk, Hillegom) is full of endless tulip fields—best explored by bike.
The Windmills of Kinderdijk & Zaanse Schans
Windmills are a Dutch icon, and Kinderdijk (a UNESCO site) and Zaanse Schans are two of the best places to see them.
Charming Small Towns
Discover some of the Netherlands’ most picturesque towns, each offering a unique blend of history, canals, and cozy cafes. Whether you’re looking for fairytale-like scenery, cultural heritage, or a relaxed atmosphere away from the big cities, these charming destinations are perfect for a spring getaway.
Giethoorn – A fairytale village with canals instead of streets.
Delft – Famous for blue pottery and historic charm.
Haarlem – A quieter alternative to Amsterdam with excellent museums.
Utrecht – Great for canal-side dining and a lively local atmosphere.
Cherry Blossoms in Amsterdamse Bos
For a touch of Japan in the Netherlands, visit Kersenbloesempark in Amsterdamse Bos, where 400 cherry trees bloom every April.
Dutch Castles & Gardens
The Netherlands’ most stunning castle.
A well-preserved medieval castle near Amsterdam.
Gorgeous royal gardens perfect for springtime visits.
Spring in the Netherlands is pure magic, whether you’re wandering through endless tulip fields, celebrating King’s Day, or enjoying the best of Dutch food and culture. The mild weather, vibrant colors, and lively festivals make this one of the best times to visit!
